Confucianism
In China, Confucius wrote down his philosophy which explained how people should live their
lives. Confucianism teaches that cach person should accept his or her role in society.
Confucianism became the basis for order and respect and was central in governing China. The
relationships and teachings of Confucius were studied for "civil service" exams. These exams
were taken by Chinese citizens in hopes of scoring well and getting a good paying job in the
government.
Central to Confucius' teaching are relationships and social roles. There are five great
relationships:
1. Kindness in the father and obedience in the son.
2. Kindness in the older brother and respect by the younger brother.
3. Good behavior by the husband and respect by the wife.
4. Gentle respect by seniors and admiration and respect for them by young people.
5. Generosity by rulers and loyalty to the ruler by their subjects.
If these attitudes are practiced there will be harmony among all.
Direction: Answer the following questions using textual evidence
1. What is Confucianism?
2. Explain two reasons why people studied Confucianism in China?
• #1-
• #2-
